GET OUTSIDE

Kiwi night walks

Whakātane’s journey to becoming the Kiwi Capital of the World began in 1999 when eight North Island brown kiwi were discovered living in the Ōhope Scenic Reserve. Since then, more than 100 volunteers have put thousands of hours each year into protecting the kiwi using pest-trapping, monitoring and community education. By late 2018, more than 300 birds lived in the reserve. The population is now so well established that residents often fall asleep listening to kiwi conversations, or peek out the window to see one enjoying a backyard meal.

Russell Ingram-Seal is a bug man. The creepier, the crawlier, the bigger, scarier — all the better. This makes him the ideal guide for a night-time kiwi walk. When the twolegged feathered friends win the game of hide and seek (which is fairly often), Russell is ready with a torch. His beam showcases the nocturnal residents of the Ōhope Scenic Reserve. Sheetweb spiders weave webs and wait patiently for dinner to land in their laps. Centipedes slide through the leaf litter. And wētā —oh, the wētā — cave wētā, tree wētā, bigger-than-a-hand wētā.

A night walk is the best way to understand the work of the Whakātane Kiwi Trust. Russell and guides share their knowledge while always keeping an ear out for the kiwis’ call. Should the weather, stars and fates align, one of the 300 birds calling this region their favourite restaurant may wander into view. But even if they don’t, it’s well worth the adventure. Kiwi Night Walks take place on Friday nights in April, May and June. Book in advance via the website — there are only 20 spots per walk. Cost is a koha or donation ($20 per adult, $10 per child and $50 per family). Bring warm clothing, suitable walking shoes and a small headlamp or torch. A reasonable level of fitness is required. whakatanekiwi.org.nz